Apple Pie Spiced Slow Cooker Applesauce

Fall is here, and so are North Carolina apples! Some are better for applesauce than others, so be sure to ask at the farmers market or do a quick online search to get just the right ones. We like to leave half the peel on for a chunkier sauce, but peel them all if preferred.

Ingredients

8–10 apples, peeled, cored and quartered

1/3 cup water (or apple juice)

Pinch of salt

Brown sugar (optional)

Apple pie spice

Directions

Add apples, water and salt to slow cooker. Stir and cover. Cook on high about 2 hours or low about 5 hours until tender.

Leave chunky, or puree with an immersion blender for smooth sauce. Taste for sweetness and add sugar as needed. Dust with apple pie spice.

Serve warm or chilled. Great alongside pork and chicken or stirred into your morning oatmeal or yogurt.

Variation: Use half apples and half pears for a wonderful apple-pear sauce.